Exploring Sport Coaches’ Experiences of Online Learning Since 2017: A Systematic Review

Bush, J, Roberts, S ORCID: 0000-0001-7370-0161, Twitchen, A ORCID: 0000-0001-6326-8029 and Cronin, C ORCID: 0000-0002-1687-4437 (2026) Exploring Sport Coaches’ Experiences of Online Learning Since 2017: A Systematic Review. International Sport Coaching Journal. pp. 1-20. ISSN 2328-918X

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Abstract

Recent technological advances and the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated the adoption of online coach learning. To support effectiveness, such learning should be informed by evidence-based research. In response, this systematic review synthesises research on online coach learning published since 2017. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a comprehensive search across 10 databases identified 19 relevant studies that were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Reflexive thematic analysis generated an overview of theoretical, methodological, and practical insights. Findings suggest that online coach learning offers perceived benefits, including knowledge acquisition, increased confidence, and enhanced reflective skills. However, the existing literature frequently lacks philosophical and conceptual clarity, methodological rigour, and analysis of measurable impacts in practice. Overall, while the evidence is promising, the efficacy of online coach learning remains questionable in the absence of more conceptually grounded and methodologically robust studies. In response, future research should employ learning theories aligned with the virtual domain.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1106 Human Movement and Sports Sciences; 1303 Specialist Studies in Education; 1701 Psychology; 3904 Specialist studies in education; 4207 Sports science and exercise; 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV561 Sports > GV711 Coaching G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV561 Sports
Divisions:	Sport and Exercise Sciences
Publisher:	Human Kinetics
Date of acceptance:	5 March 2026
Date of first compliant Open Access:	13 June 2026
Date Deposited:	12 Jun 2026 13:43
Last Modified:	15 Jun 2026 09:08
DOI or ID number:	10.1123/iscj.2025-0034
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/28822

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